All times are listed in Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). 

 

CHECK-IN & INFORMATION CENTER

8:45 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Diana Center, Main Lobby

Welcome! When you arrive on campus each day, please stop by to check in and pick up a name tag and program. If questions arise, Family Weekend staff will be available here to assist you.

 

PARENTS COUNCIL TABLE

9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Diana Center, Main Lobby

Stop by to say hello and discover more about the Barnard Parents Council. Find out how you can make a difference for the College and deepen your connection with the Barnard community. When parents of Barnard students make a leadership gift to the Barnard Annual Fund, they become members of both the Blue & Bold Society, Barnard’s leadership giving society, and the Parents Council. For more information, please contact us at parentsgiving@barnard.edu.

 

OBSERVE A BARNARD DANCE CLASS

Barnard’s outstanding Dance Department offers an interdisciplinary program that integrates the study of dance within a liberal arts setting of intellectual and creative exploration and serves as the center for dance performance and research for both Barnard and Columbia. The department offers technique courses for students of all levels of expertise, and both courses and auditions for productions are open to both majors and nonmajors alike. 

Families may come and go freely during class — you do not need to stay the entire time. If other families are waiting, please be courteous in keeping your visit brief. Photography, food, and drink are not permitted in the dance studios.

• Ballet classes teach classical ballet techniques, emphasizing proper alignment and addressing artistry of articulation, phrasing, dynamics, and nuance at each level. 
  • 9 – 10:50 a.m. | INTERMEDIATE BALLET III WITH VINCENT McCLOSKEY (Barnard Hall LL013, Studio 1)
  • 9 – 10:50 a.m. | ADVANCED BALLET VI WITH ASHLEY TUTTLE (Barnard Hall, Studio 305)
  • 11 a.m. – 12:50 p.m. | HIGH INTERMEDIATE BALLET IV WITH JUAN RODRIGUEZ (Barnard Hall, Studio 305)
• Modern classes teach the aesthetic principles of contemporary dance based on the work of 20th-century innovators, with increased technical demands at each successive level.
  • 11 a.m. – 12:50 p.m. | BEGINNING MODERN I WITH VINCENT McCLOSKEY (Barnard Hall LL013, Studio 1)
  • 1 – 2:50 p.m. | HIGH INTERMEDIATE MODERN IV WITH JODI MELNICK (Barnard Hall, Studio 305)
• This course teaches contemporary flamenco dance technique with special emphasis on improvisation and performance. Through video and reading assignments and attendance at live performances, students will also develop a context for understanding flamenco art, pedagogy, and culture. 
  • 11 a.m. – 12:50 p.m. | FLAMENCO WITH NELIDA TIRADO (Barnard Hall 110, Streng Dance Studio)
• Afro-Cuban dance classes introduce students to the African-based folkloric and popular dances of Cuba, including Orisha, Rumba, and Salsa, and contextualize these forms within the historical and contemporary significance of Afro-Cuban dance performance. 
  • 1 – 3 p.m. | ADVANCED EXPLORATIONS IN AFRO-CUBAN DANCE WITH REBECCA BLISS (Barnard Hall LL013, Studio 1)
  • 3 – 5 p.m. | AFRO-CUBAN DANCE WITH REBECCA BLISS (Barnard Hall LL013, Studio 1)

 

SUMMER FUNDING: STUDENTS DISCUSS RESEARCH AND INTERNSHIP PROJECTS SUPPORTED BY BEYOND BARNARD

9:15 – 10:15 a.m. | Diana Center, Event Oval, Lower Level 1

Beyond Barnard has a goal of ensuring that, by 2027, every student who comes to Barnard can have access to at least one paid internship or research opportunity supported by the College. Hear from a panel of students, moderated by Assistant Vice President of Lifelong Success A-J Aronstein, about a range of internship and research experiences completed in summer 2024 and how Barnard helped make them possible. Plus, learn about the programs in general so you can share insights with your students.

 

STUDENT SERVICES RESOURCE FAIR

10:15 – 11:15 a.m. | Futter Field or Diana Center, Millicent Carey McIntosh Student Dining Room and Lobby, Level 2 (weather-dependent)

Barnard’s outstanding student services staff support students with all facets of life at Barnard. During this Resource Fair, you will meet staff from many offices on campus and learn how they provide your students with intellectual and social opportunities, promote student wellness, build community, and more. You will also have the opportunity to discuss your student’s Barnard experience thus far and ask the questions that are on your mind.

• Access Barnard — Access Barnard serves as the hub of College efforts to enhance the academic experiences and promote the inclusion and excellence of first-generation, low-income, and international students in their transition to and persistence through the Barnard experience.
• Athena Center for Leadership — The Athena Center for Leadership is a hub for changemakers at Barnard College.
• Barnard Dining — Barnard Dining, the on-site food service provider at the College, believes that serving healthy, nutritious, and sustainability-forward food provides a foundation for successful learning.
• Barnard Global — The Barnard Global office provides advising and support for students looking to study abroad during either the academic year or the summer.
• Beyond Barnard — Beyond Barnard provides lifelong support for students and graduates as they define, pursue, and achieve success in their careers and communities.
• Center for Accessibility Resources & Disability Services (CARDS) — CARDS is the focal point for meeting the needs of community members (students, staff, and visitors) with disabilities.
• Community Engagement & Inclusion (CEI) — CEI serves as a “front door” and convener for Barnard students, faculty, staff, and external communities to connect each to potential opportunities, resources, and/or scholarship activities across the College, University, neighborhoods, city, and beyond.
• Deans’ Office for Advising and Support — The Deans’ Office for Advising and Support is committed to supporting the academic success, personal development, and mental and physical well-being of all students.
• Health & Wellness — Health & Wellness at Barnard offers primary care and mental health services to our students, coupled with holistic education and support to address the physical, mental, and financial well-being of our community.
• Residential Life & Housing — Residential Life and Housing provides a safe environment to promote the educational experience and personal growth of all students through intentional work practices, programming, and collaboration.
• Student Experience & Engagement (SEE) — Student Experience & Engagement envisions a Barnard where every student feels welcome and supported, is engaged, and becomes an agent for social change.
• Sustainability & Climate Action — The Office of Sustainability & Climate Action works to lower our environmental impact through initiatives like sustainable food programs, circularity, campus decarbonization, and integrating sustainability into academics.

 

TOUR OF THE MORNINGSIDE HEIGHTS NEIGHBORHOOD

10:30 – 11:15 a.m. | Departing from Admissions Visitor Center, Sulzberger Annex, 1st Floor

Curious to learn more about the neighborhood surrounding Barnard’s campus? Join our tour guides on a walking tour to explore the highlights of the unique and charming Morningside Heights community, which offers an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, an abundance of green space, and a college-town feel. 

This program is also offered at 3 p.m.

 

READING “THE BOUNDARY” WITH PROVOST REBECCA WALKOWITZ

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Diana Center, Event Oval, Lower Level 1

What boundaries should we consider when we read a work of literature? How can thinking about the boundaries of literature — such as the cover, title, chapter heading, author’s name, or footnotes — help us think about the boundaries of language, nation, empathy, and community? To answer these questions, join Provost Rebecca Walkowitz for a discussion of one of her favorite short stories, “The Boundary,” by Jhumpa Lahiri, a distinguished faculty member in the English Department and Barnard alumna. Written in Italian and translated into English, “The Boundary” tells a story about observers and storytellers, including a writer who, with her family, has traveled to the countryside for vacation and a young caretaker who serves them. We encourage you to read the story, locate at least one “boundary” you’ve noticed, and bring your curiosity and your voice. 

 

LUNCH

Lunch may be purchased on campus in Hewitt Dining, the Diana Center Café, and Barnard Dining Bubble Tea and Sushi Spot, as well as at the many restaurants located throughout the neighborhood. Pre-packaged sandwiches and salads are available at Liz’s Place in the Diana Center along with coffee, beverages, and snacks. More information about on- and off-campus dining options can be found on the Helpful Information webpage.

 

OPEN HOUSE: DESIGN CENTER

1 – 4 p.m. | Milstein Center, Room 104

The Design Center is an interdisciplinary makerspace for experimentation with materials and tools, supporting design projects as well as the pedagogy associated with making. Incorporating a broad tool set that includes 3D printers, laser and vinyl cutters, sewing and embroidery machines, soldering irons, woodworking tools, and more, the Design Center expands opportunities for design-centered thinking across the Barnard College curriculum. Come by to see the space and make a custom pin!

 

OPEN HOURS: ARTHUR ROSS GREENHOUSE

1 – 4 p.m. | Milbank Hall, 5th Floor

The Arthur Ross Greenhouse, atop Milbank Hall on Barnard’s campus, provides a rare NYC opportunity to enjoy nature and study plants. Barnard’s third greenhouse to date, this 3,400-square-foot, state-of-the-art plant growth facility built in 1998 replaced the previous greenhouse built in 1928. The conservatory has about 450 different species of plants from varied climate zones and is utilized as a research and teaching facility as well as a public space. Learn from our Student Greenhouse Assistants, who will be there to answer questions as you explore this remarkable facility at your own pace. And be sure to sign the guestbook during your visit!

You may also visit the Greenhouse on Saturday, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Getting to the Greenhouse: Enter through the central doors of Milbank Hall and ascend the short staircase. Proceed to the 4th floor via the stairs or elevator, which can be found through the double doors to your right. Once you arrive on the 4th floor, turn right, and you’ll find the entrance to the Greenhouse down the hall on your left. Once inside the Greenhouse, take the stairs or small passenger elevator up to the 5th floor.

 

BREATHE AND STRETCH WITH THE FRANCINE A. LEFRAK FOUNDATION CENTER FOR WELL-BEING

1:15 – 1:45 p.m. | Milstein Center, Lynn Chu Classroom, Lower Level 002

Take a moment during the excitement of Family Weekend to join our Breathe and Stretch class, hosted by the LeFrak Center Fitness Team. This 30-minute chair yoga session is open to all and requires no prior experience or equipment. It offers a peaceful break to help you relax, recharge, and refocus before diving back into the weekend’s activities. 

 

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT — EDUCATION FROM MANY ANGLES (PROF. ANNE HIGONNET)

2 – 2:45 p.m. | Diana Center, Event Oval, Lower Level 1

How and why do we get dressed? And what does that have to do with your students’ education at Barnard? Anne Higonnet, Barbara Novak Professor of Art History, will talk about the ideas behind her immensely popular course “Clothing,” which introduces students to how architecture, anthropology, art history, economics, history, psychology, law, literary studies, sociology, and sustainability studies have all inquired into the mysteries of clothing. What advantages are there to approaching a big human subject from many angles?

 

TOUR OF THE MORNINGSIDE HEIGHTS NEIGHBORHOOD

3 – 3:45 p.m. |  Departing from Admissions Visitor Center, Sulzberger Annex, 1st Floor

Curious to learn more about the neighborhood surrounding Barnard’s campus? Join our tour guides on a walking tour to explore the highlights of the unique and charming Morningside Heights community, which offers an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, an abundance of green space, and a college-town feel. 

 

BARNARD’S BOLD HISTORY, FEARLESS FUTURE: A CONVERSATION WITH PRESIDENT ROSENBURY

4 – 5 p.m. | Diana Center, Event Oval, Lower Level 1

Join us for a conversation with President Laura Rosenbury on our Bold History, Fearless Future: a plan to ensure Barnard’s continued eminence for years to come. In this interactive session, you’ll have an opportunity to share your ideas, ask questions, and help Barnard innovate in academics, infrastructure, and community building. 

 

WELCOME RECEPTION

5 – 6 p.m. | Diana Center, Millicent Carey McIntosh Student Dining Room, Level 2

Gather with fellow Barnard families to enjoy refreshments and celebrate with one another.

 

All times are listed in Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). 

 

CHECK-IN & INFORMATION CENTER

8:45 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Diana Center, Main Lobby

Welcome! When you arrive on campus each day, please stop by to check in and pick up a name tag and program. If questions arise, Family Weekend staff will be available here to assist you.

 

PARENTS COUNCIL TABLE

9:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Diana Center, Main Lobby

Stop by to say hello and discover more about the Barnard Parents Council. Find out how you can make a difference for the College and deepen your connection with the Barnard community. When parents of Barnard students make a leadership gift to the Barnard Annual Fund, they become members of both the Blue & Bold Society, Barnard’s leadership giving society, and the Parents Council. For more information, please contact us at parentsgiving@barnard.edu.
 

FINANCIAL WELL-BEING: MONEY MATTERS

9:15 – 9:45 a.m. | Diana Center, Event Oval, Lower Level 1

Join LeFrak Ambassador Shannon Geraghty ’25 for a fun and informative overview of the Francine A. LeFrak Center's Financial Well-Being program. This Barbie-themed presentation will explore budgeting and money management through the lens of Barbie and her friends, offering insights into important financial questions that students are asking today.

 

THEATRE AT BARNARD: A PEEK BEHIND-THE-SCENES

10 – 10:30 a.m. | Minor Latham Playhouse, Milbank Hall 118

Join the Barnard College Department of Theatre for a behind-the-scenes look at Minor Latham Playhouse in Milbank Hall. Department productions are open to majors and non-majors across Barnard, Columbia College, and the School of General Studies, and feature student actors and technicians working alongside professional directors and designers. During this session, hear from the department’s Director of Production, Mike Banta, about the process of mounting a show at Barnard and the many ways students can get involved. 

 

10:45 – 11:30 a.m. | Locations listed below

BREAKOUT SESSIONS WITH THE CLASS DEANS

At Barnard, each of the four class years is assigned a Class Dean, who helps students navigate their college experience and serves as a source of advising and support. In this session, the Class Deans will provide an overview of the milestones, challenges, and opportunities that your student might expect to encounter throughout the year ahead and answer your questions.

• Class of 2028: Holly Tedder, Dean for Academic Planning and Class Advising | Diana Center, Event Oval, Lower Level 1
• Class of 2027: Mary Laurita, Sophomore Class Dean and Associate Dean for Transfer Students | Milstein Center, Lynn Chu Classroom, Lower Level 002
• Classes of 2025 and 2026: Erica Siegel, Junior Class Dean and Associate Dean for Academic Assistance, and Rebecca Grabiner, Senior Class Dean | Krueger Lecture Hall, 405 Milbank Hall

 

FALL FESTIVAL

11:30 am. – 12:30 p.m. | Futter Field or James Room, Barnard Hall, 4th Floor (weather-dependent)

Gather with other Barnard families to enjoy cider and donuts, hear a special performance from Barnard's Bacchantae a cappella group, and celebrate Family Weekend together.

 

OPEN HOURS: ARTHUR ROSS GREENHOUSE

11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Milbank Hall, 5th Floor

The Arthur Ross Greenhouse, atop Milbank Hall on Barnard’s campus, provides a rare NYC opportunity to enjoy nature and study plants. Barnard’s third greenhouse to date, this 3,400-square-foot, state-of-the-art plant growth facility built in 1998 replaced the previous greenhouse built in 1928. The conservatory has about 450 different species of plants from varied climate zones and is utilized as a research and teaching facility as well as a public space. Learn from our Student Greenhouse Assistants, who will be there to answer questions as you explore this remarkable facility at your own pace. And be sure to sign the guestbook during your visit!

Getting to the Greenhouse: Enter through the central doors of Milbank Hall and ascend the short staircase. Proceed to the 4th floor via the stairs or elevator, which can be found through the double doors to your right. Once you arrive on the 4th floor, turn right, and you’ll find the entrance to the Greenhouse down the hall on your left. Once inside the Greenhouse, take the stairs or small passenger elevator up to the 5th floor.

 

LUNCH

Lunch may be purchased on campus in Hewitt Dining and at the many restaurants located throughout the neighborhood. Pre-packaged salads and sandwiches, coffee, beverages, and snacks are available at Liz’s Place in the Diana Center. More information about on- and off-campus dining options can be found on the Helpful Information webpage.

 

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT — THE DECISION DESK: HOW MEDIA ORGANIZATIONS MAKE ELECTION NIGHT CALLS (PROF. MICHAEL MILLER)

1 – 1:45 p.m. | Held Auditorium, Barnard Hall 304

On Election Night, millions of Americans tune in for live coverage of the results. Media organizations rely on their “decision desks,” staffed by statisticians, data scientists, and other experts, to provide fast and accurate projections. But what fuels those “calls”? In this presentation, Associate Professor of Political Science Michael Miller will describe the polling, data, and considerations that networks use to make those calls in real time and how media organizations are planning for the particular challenges of the 2024 election.
 

FOOTBALL — COLUMBIA VS. DARTMOUTH

1:30 p.m. | Robert K. Kraft Field at Wien Stadium, Baker Athletics Complex (533 W. 218th St.)

Cheer on the Columbia Lions at Homecoming! Tickets for guests are required and may be purchased on the Columbia Athletics website. Current students enter free with their Barnard College ID. Free fan shuttles are available, departing from 116th St. and Broadway beginning at 10:30 a.m. and returning after the game ends. The venue is also accessible via the 1 subway train uptown to the 215th St. stop. More information can be found on the Columbia Football webpage. 

 

STUDENT SUPPORT AT BARNARD

2 – 2:45 p.m. | Held Auditorium, Barnard Hall 304

At Barnard, we are committed to supporting students in creating and maintaining community and navigating personal and academic challenges as they seek to be successful. The Campus Life and Student Experience division works collaboratively with each other and with departments across Barnard to inspire students, foster their opportunities for intellectual and social development, and help them develop a sense of belonging. Using a case study approach, we will discuss scenarios that are common for college students, inviting parents and families to think strategically about how they might respond and introducing them to College resources that can support their students as they navigate the path to graduation.

 

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT — AI FOR SOCIAL GOOD (PROF. COREY TOLER-FRANKLIN)

3 – 3:45 p.m. | Held Auditorium, Barnard Hall 304

In this presentation, Corey Toler-Franklin, Assistant Professor of Computer Science and Director of the Graphics Imaging & Light Measurement Lab, will discuss her work developing novel artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms for life science and biomedical research through collaboration in different fields. Her current research initiative have broad social impact and include developing neural networks to detect cancerous tumors in tissue biopsies, using deep learning to examine animal behavior in ways that could lead to treatments for human neurological disorders like autism, and using multispectral imaging and machine learning to analyze data at the site of the Tulsa race massacre of 1921.

 

WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL: COLUMBIA VS. CORNELL

6 p.m. | Schiller Court at Levien Gymnasium, Dodge Fitness Center, Columbia’s Morningside Heights campus

Come cheer on our student-athletes! Tickets are not required. To enter, follow the signs for Levien Gymnasium at the southeast corner of Broadway and 120th St. More information can be found on the Columbia Athletics Volleyball webpage.